Episode 26 - B2B eCommerce Trends with Darren Sepanek & Carrie Weidenbach of E7 Solutions
eCommerce Evolution · with Darren Sepanek & Carrie Weidenbach · August 9, 2017 · 46 min
Summary
This episode, though older, touches on foundational differences between B2C and B2B e-commerce, highlighting the complexities inherent in B2B transactions. It emphasizes the need for tailored solutions that go beyond simple online storefronts to address intricate pricing, procurement, and integration challenges. For modern e-commerce operators, it serves as a reminder that B2B platforms require a deep understanding of business logic and operational workflows, a principle that remains true today even with evolving technologies.
Key takeaways
Understand that B2B e-commerce isn't just B2C with more SKUs; it requires fundamentally different approaches to pricing, order management, and customer relationships.
Prioritize integration with existing ERP and CRM systems to streamline B2B operations and avoid data silos.
Recognize the importance of personalized experiences and flexible purchasing options for B2B buyers.
Consider the long-term relationship aspect of B2B sales and how your e-commerce platform can support ongoing client success.
Invest in robust back-end capabilities to handle complex contracts, credit terms, and approval workflows unique to B2B.
B2B eCommerce is poised to explode in the coming months. In fact, Forrester predicts that B2b eCommerce will be twice the size of B2C eCommerce by 2020. If you are a B2B company or if you're a service provider working with B2B companies, or if you just want to see how B2B will shape eCommerce - this episode is important to you. In this episode I'm honored to welcome two veterans of eCommerce - Darren Sepanek and Carrie Weidenbach. Darren joined the Magento team in 2010 and helped launch and run the worldwide Magento Partner Network. Carrie has been in the eCommerce industry for 12 years and has served in both COO and Director of Project management roles launching over 20 large eCommerce site builds annually. They are both now at E7 Solutions and work with the OROCommerce Platform (Co-founded by <a href= "https://twitter.
What does this episode say about shopify & ecommerce platforms?
Understand that B2B e-commerce isn't just B2C with more SKUs; it requires fundamentally different approaches to pricing, order management, and customer relationships.
What does this episode say about supply chain & operations?
Prioritize integration with existing ERP and CRM systems to streamline B2B operations and avoid data silos.
What does this episode say about brand & content?
Recognize the importance of personalized experiences and flexible purchasing options for B2B buyers.
What does this episode say about shopify & ecommerce platforms?
Consider the long-term relationship aspect of B2B sales and how your e-commerce platform can support ongoing client success.
What does this episode say about shopify & ecommerce platforms?
Invest in robust back-end capabilities to handle complex contracts, credit terms, and approval workflows unique to B2B.
